Snapshot: Living On The Strand

7 minute read

Envision spectacular oceanfront vistas spanning from Palos Verdes to Catalina to Malibu (not to mention the breathtaking sunsets), recreational and leisure activities galore, and more—all mere steps from the door of your luxurious beachfront home. This is the everyday for the residents of The Strand—an alluring parcel of coastal land stretching from the beach cities of Hermosa to Manhattan Beach showcasing spectacular beachfront homes ranging from contemporary mansions to historic bungalows, priced from $6 million to $25 million (depending on location and condition).

This is the everyday for the residents of The Strand—an alluring parcel of coastal land stretching from the beach cities of Hermosa to Manhattan Beach showcasing spectacular beachfront homes ranging from contemporary mansions to historic bungalows, priced from $6 million to $25 million (depending on location and condition).

As you walk up and down The Strand Manhattan Beach, you’ll find affluent homeowners basking in the best of what Southern California has to offer—from the natural beauty of the ocean to trendy shops, restaurants and nightlife locales, to enjoying outdoor activities such as biking, surfing and volleyball.

This is a dream location for anyone who likes the beach

—Lauren Forbes of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

“You get to see, hear and smell the ocean at all times. You can be active by default (run on the strand, play volleyball out front on the sand, swim in the ocean, surf, paddle or boogie board in the waves). The year-round sunsets are amazing, and just watching the water calms the soul. You can also walk to both Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach towns to go to shops and restaurants, and renowned beach volleyball tournaments.”

In case you’re thinking of making a move to this slice of paradise, we asked some of South Bay’s top realtors what stands out about The Strand, as well as for a sampling of some of the most sought-after properties now available.

We can all agree on one thing: The Strand is beachfront living at its finest—in one of the most desirable beach cities in the country.

The New Wave Up-Scale Dining Options

“I am digging the newer wave of restaurants that have graced the Hermosa Beach area, especially closer to Pier Avenue: Abigaile, Steak & Whiskey, and The Standing Room are a few of the newer dining spots that have mirrored the upper-scale and modern direction that Hermosa has been headed.”

The Price of the Most Expensive Home on The Strand

$25 million dollars. That’s the price for the most expensive home currently available in the area. Located at 2806 The Strand in North Hermosa Beach, this custom-built Italian-style villa designed by South Bay architect Edward Beall features 7,900 square feet of living space, along with multiple decks for outdoor living.

No expense was spared. “For starters, most homes on The Strand sit on lots ranging from 2,000-3,500 square feet; 2806 The Strand sits on a massive 5,324 square foot lot,” says Rupesh Singh, who is co-listing the property with Raju Chhabria, both of Shorewood Realtors.

“Beyond that, the living space of this house is very well thought out, so it feels like an estate. The custom Italian-inspired architecture and style is also a unique aspect.”

Some standout features: eight-foot custom copper entry doors that vacuum seal electronically when entered; a great room area with original sports pieces (such as stock certificates from the Boston Red Sox dating back to the early 1900s); and a movie theater with curtains made of jerseys worn in the 2004 World Series, just to name a few.

“My favorite part of the house is the automatically controlled rotating skylight with a diameter of 16 feet, which opens up to the huge rooftop deck,” Singh says.

“It was built with the intent of putting in a pool, but for now it serves as a great dance floor and entertaining area, complete with a Viking barbecue, appliances and a powder room.” photos courtesy of Geoff Captain

Why The Strand Manhattan Beach Is One Of The Best Places To Live

“The hustle and bustle of LA is within reach, yet Hermosa offers a getaway tucked between Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach that parallels a vacation destination,” says Singh.

“The demographics of this area are highly educated, high-income folks, but the vibe is very relaxed, laid-back and humble. The Strand is considered one of the most prestigious—if not the most prestigious—of streets in all of South Bay. Several famous athletes, actors, coaches, authors and powerful business people have called it home at one point or another.”

“The Strand embodies Southern California living at its finest: You have sunshine year-round and every recreational opportunity you could desire. During summertime, especially on the Fourth of July, people from all over the country gather to celebrate, walk The Strand, participate in Hermosa Beach’s own Ironman and watch the fireworks.”

718 The Strand, Hermosa Beach

This contemporary property designed by notable local architect Dean Nota recently underwent a complete remodel. Situated just south of the pier and downtown area, the $7.75 million concrete, glass and steel home offers panoramic views from all three of its levels.

“The designer of the home has been mentored by some of the most famous architects in the world and is extremely talented,” says Bisignano. “The home exhibits a pure contemporary ambiance, much different than what people would call beach contemporary.”

Bisignano’s Most Memorable Strand Sale

“1600 The Strand, Manhattan Beach, which was designed by Ray Kappe, founder of SCI-Arc, one of the most famous architectural schools in the country,” recounts Bisignano.

“I also sold a house in Hermosa Beach on the corner of 22nd and The Strand that used to be owned by Ozzie and Harriet.”

1830 The Strand, North Hermosa Beach

Coming in at just under $8 million, this 2,850 square foot Spanish-style home is classic in every sense of the word. Built in 1927, the six-bedroom property is highlighted by magnificent views through the enormous front windows and a quintessential top-floor, ocean-view balcony, along with proximity to Manhattan Beach Pier, shops and restaurants.

“This home is historical, without being zoned historical,” says Forbes. “It was built incredibly well at the time of construction, so the style is such that someone could come in and remodel and make it their own (saving the iconic living room with forever views) or use the lot as their canvas and build whatever their dream’s desire.”

“This particular property is special because of its North Hermosa location that is south enough to allow for a home to be built 30 feet high and with an income component (it is legally zoned R2),” she adds. photos courtesy of Adrian Tiemens

Forbes’ Most Memorable Strand Sale

“A double lot at 2408 The Strand in Hermosa Beach. The owners considered keeping the original structure and remodeling, but then decided to build new. Now it is one of the most beautiful homes on the Strand, considering both Manhattan and Hermosa.”

716 The Strand, Manhattan Beach

“Listings on The Strand are few and far between, because there are only approximately 250 properties… and that number will never grow,” says Gillespie. “There’s only a lucky few that have the opportunity to enjoy their life in oceanfront properties on The Strand. Unlike most of the homes that are already built, this home can be created from the ground up to cater to the buyer’s needs.”

“Every day, enjoy the beach lifestyle,” he adds. “Just step outside to smell the salty air, feel the soothing ocean breeze and enjoy breathtaking sunsets. Summertime sunsets are exquisite and often look as though someone has painted the sky.” photos courtesy of Walkthrough Productions

1614 The Strand Hermosa Beach

As a lifetime resident of Hermosa Beach—who has had 50-plus oceanfront listings and sales transactions during his 30 years in real estate—Jonathan Coleman knows a good deal when he sees it. In fact, he’s well known as “The Strand Specialist,” and his latest listing reveals why.

Priced at $8.895 million, this vintage oceanfront duplex in North Hermosa not only offers a desirable Strand location, but it’s also an ideal lot for the development of a custom legacy home.

“First, it’s a full street alley lot, and second, it’s located just far enough from downtown to be away from the traffic yet walking distance to everything,” Coleman says.

“You can park your car for the weekend and walk everywhere.”

His client even has conceptual plans for contemporary new construction. “You can build over 4,000 square feet there, particularly going subterranean,” he says, “which is what a lot of people do to get a lower level.”